How the corporation's Slip Simulator is reducing lost time injuries
Canada Post is taking bold steps to tackle one of the most persistent workplace hazards: slips, trips, and falls. During the winter months, when icy conditions spike the risk of injuries, the company has deployed innovative tools and practices to protect its workers. Among these initiatives is the Slip Simulator™, a cutting-edge experiential training system that gives employees hands-on experience in mastering safe walking techniques on hazardous surfaces.
“We’re relentless in our commitment to ensure our employees make it home safely every single day,” says Nadia Afara, health and safety manager at Canada Post. “Slips, trips, and falls account for 40% of all injuries and lost time at Canada Post, and we’ve made it our mission to reduce those numbers significantly.” Afara made the comments during a recent webinar presented by The KITE Research Institute which is part of the University Health Network.
Winter-specific hazards meet tailored solutions
The winter months present unique challenges for Canada Post’s delivery agents, who walk long routes in snow, ice, and slush. To address these hazards, the Slip Simulator™ training program replicates real-world conditions, such as icy ramps and curbs, in a controlled environment. Trainees wear a harness for safety while practicing techniques like keeping their shoulders back, heads up, and feet flat to maintain balance.
“Traditional methods like telling employees to be cautious or offering pamphlets on safety only go so far,” Afara explains. “By using the Slip Simulator™, we engage employees in active learning, which has been proven to increase retention and improve muscle memory.”
Canada Post has also made strides in providing the right equipment. Through its Snowflake Boots program, employees are equipped with winter footwear tested for high performance in slippery conditions. Developed in partnership with the Kite Research Institute’s Winter Lab, the boots offer a higher coefficient of friction, significantly reducing slips.
“We’ve seen firsthand that combining the right gear with the right training makes a substantial difference,” adds Kim Gould, people and culture manager. “It’s about empowering our team with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate their routes safely.”
Results and employee feedback
In a 2022 pilot program, delivery agents who completed Slip Simulator™ training experienced promising results. According to Afara, “not a single trained employee reported a lost-time injury during the winter following the pilot. Even more encouraging is that those who observed the training also reported fewer injuries, demonstrating the wide-reaching impact of the program.”
Employees themselves have lauded the initiative. “We received 100% positive feedback during the pilot,” Gould shares proudly. “One employee told us it was the best training they’d ever experienced at Canada Post. That kind of response reinforces our belief in the program.”
Scaling up for nationwide implementation
Building on the pilot’s success, Canada Post has purchased two mobile Slip Simulator™ units stationed in Montreal and Toronto. These units focus on training new delivery agents, who tend to be at higher risk for injuries. The company also plans to expand the program with additional units and refresher courses to reinforce safe walking habits.
“It’s about building a culture of safety, where these techniques become second nature,” Gould emphasizes. “By reaching as many employees as possible, we’re not just reducing injuries—we’re improving lives.”
As Canada Post continues to roll out its safety initiatives, it remains a leader in prioritizing employee well-being. With its innovative approach, the organization sets a high bar for workplace safety, particularly during the challenging winter months.
“Our goal is simple,” Afara concludes. “We want every employee to make it safe and make it home.”
